GLENDALE, Ariz. — An Arizona State University (ASU) student is recovering at home one week after being stabbed several times on campus.
Kaci Sloan, 19, the woman who allegedly attacked her, was arrested thanks to a classmate who stopped Sloan from running away and held her down until police arrived.
Family of the victim, identified as Mara Daffron, are now calling that classmate a hero.
"I just did what needed to be done and I think everybody has the capacity to be able to do that," Matthew McCormick, the classmate said.
McCormick is a Navy Veteran and an ASU student. He's shared several classes with Daffron in their time at ASU.
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"She's very vibrant. She's bubbly and energetic," McCormick said. "Just an overall great person to be around and I think the world is a better place with her in it."
He said he had just walked into his microeconomics class last Thursday and set his stuff down next to Daffron when he saw another student lunge at her.
"I sprung and grabbed her wrist and took her to the ground and immediately disarmed her and then I kind of just held her there until the authorities arrived," McCormick said. "I just knew I needed to do something. I had to act immediately."
Daffron is recovering after undergoing surgery and is expected to be okay.
Court documents obtained by 12News reveal Sloan admitted to planning the attack the night before.
Sloan allegedly didn't know anything about Daffron, except her first name, and chose to stab her because she "was an easier target" than another classmate.
"Really the whole situation was just despicable. You know, it's predatory to prey upon those who are deemed easier targets. I really have no words," McCormick said.
Sloan is facing several felony charges including premeditated attempted murder.
McCormick said he is looking forward to seeing his friend return to campus."As tragic as this situation was, I am really happy that I was able to intervene and help keep their family whole," McCormick said.
A GoFundMe page was created to help the Daffron family during her recovery. Click here to donate.
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